DUSP3 Human

DUSP3 is a protein encoded by the DUSP3 gene. It has a molecular weight of approximately 20.4 kDa and is produced in Escherichia coli for recombinant purposes . The enzyme is involved in the negative regulation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) superfamily, which includes MAPK/ERK, SAPK/JNK, and p38 kinases . These kinases are crucial for cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and response to extracellular stimuli .

DUSP3 inactivates its target kinases by dephosphorylating both phosphoserine/threonine and phosphotyrosine residues. This dual specificity allows it to effectively regulate the activity of MAP kinases, thereby influencing various cellular functions . The enzyme’s activity can be measured using specific substrates such as p-nitrophenyl phosphate (pNPP), and its activity is optimal at a pH of 6.0 .

DUSP3 is mapped to a region containing the BRCA1 locus, which is associated with susceptibility to breast and ovarian cancer. However, mutation screening in breast cancer pedigrees and sporadic tumors has shown that DUSP3 is not BRCA1 . Additionally, DUSP3 has been implicated in various diseases, including vaccinia and spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia tarda, X-linked .

Recombinant DUSP3 is widely used in research to study its kinetics, substrate specificity, and role in cellular signaling pathways. It is also utilized in assays to dephosphorylate phosphorylated protein substrates, providing insights into its regulatory functions .

For optimal stability, recombinant DUSP3 should be stored at -80°C and aliquoted to avoid freeze/thaw cycles . It is typically formulated in a buffer containing citrate, sodium chloride, EDTA, and DTT to maintain its activity .